The Lakes West Magazine April 2024

Help Through Troubled Times

Dustin’s Place Gives MuchNeeded Grief Support for Children and Families

BRINGING SOMETHING NEW TO THE TABLE

FRESH MENU ADDITIONS AND A TASTE FOR COMMUNITY KEEP THINGS COOKING AT THE LAKEHOUSE GRILLE IN CULVER

Learning Leadership

Starke County 4-H Junior Leaders Develop Essential Skills

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The Starke County 4-H Junior Leaders is a program within the 4-H organization that instills qualities such as leadership and responsibility to older 4-H members, those in grades seven through 12, by providing practical and hands-on life-learning experiences.

Projects and happenings within the community, county events, and participation in a variety of roles at the local fair are just some of the ways young people develop traits that will benefit them in their adult life.

Communication, problem solving, and the capacity to conduct an interview and be interviewed, are just a few of the skills that a Junior Leader learns through involvement in the program. These are skills that many of us as adults just take for granted.

The itinerary for the 4-H program year is planned and implemented by the Junior Leaders acting as a team, thus providing the knowledge of understanding the advantage of working together and valuing collective input from

individuals. Acting as camp counselors during the summer, Junior Leaders receive training that instills the ability to plan and lead younger members in a variety of activities.

The Starke County Fair also provides a variety of learning experiences for these young leaders. Members assist with project and livestock checkin, help judges in the evaluation of projects, and run a milkshake stand. Teamwork, leadership, organization, business operation, and the competence to simply interact with people are truly lifelong proficiencies that these young people are exposed to.

Another great learning experience for these future adults is the opportunity to attend a wide variety of statewide trips. The State 4-H Junior Leader Conference, the 4-H Roundup, the 4-H Academy at Purdue, 4-H Band and 4-H Chorus are just a few that are offered to all 4-H members. These trips provide an avenue to learn about possible career paths, the chance to interact with others from across Indiana, and a way to further develop life skills.

Foot Pain? We Can Help!

Pulaski Memorial Hospital is pleased to welcome Morgan Faanes, DPM, to our Medical and Surgical Group.

As a podiatrist, Dr. Faanes can treat a wide array of foot and ankle ailments, including ingrown toenails, warts, plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and many others.

Additionally, Dr. Faanes provides several surgical options and will see patients in our Wound Care Center. Dr. Faanes is accepting new patients at our Winamac Clinic.

Toscheduleanappointment, pleasecall(574)946-2194.

Julia Miller, the current 4-H youth development Extension educator, has deep ties to Starke County and the 4-H program. Both of her parents were 4-H members in Indiana and active volunteers in the Starke County program. Having been a 10-year member in the 4-H program along with six years as a Junior Leader, one can see that the 4-H program has played an active role in her life. “The 4-H program, Junior Leaders in particular, helped shape me, build my life skills, and provided me with opportunities to be where I am now, professionally and personally,” she says.

Being one of the largest and strongest organizations in the state for many years, countless current community leaders have prospered from their membership in the Starke County 4-H Junior Leaders. High school principals, athletic coaches, lawyers, photographers and civic managers, just to name a few, have benefited from the traits and skills they learned and developed in the program.

One can see by the experience and enthusiasm that Miller gives to these future generations that she is committed to providing them with the same opportunities. “One never knows the impact that you may have on someone until later, and that means a lot,” she says. “Seeing that impact and helping youth develop their skills is so much fun.”

Depending on the activity or learning event, the Starke County 4-H Junior Leaders usually meet on the first Monday of the month from November to June. To participate, join the 4-H by registering online at in.4honline.com. More information can be obtained by calling 574-772-9141.

Dr. Morgan Faanes, DPM Podiatry

In the summer of 2023, Tori Prendergast had a vision to create a one-of-a-kind weight loss facility for the community of Bremen. As her passion came to fruition, Max Metabolic Wellness & Weight Loss was born.

Prendergast saw the need for individuals to gain access to weight management providers and the resources to help them achieve their goals. With all of the fad diets and weight loss programs on the market, Prendergast aimed to operate her clinic in a different

light. This is when she realized the Bremen area was in need of a convenient, affordable clinic that focused on working one-on-one with clients. Her initial goal, which remains the same today, is to focus on helping people feel empowered to get healthy and lose weight in a comfortable setting.

Since she opened the doors to Max Metabolic in July, the business has grown significantly. Prendergast and her team now provide nutrition consulting, medical weight loss programs, hormone analysis,

and functional medicine to patients all over Indiana. It has also grown beyond state lines.

“I even have a few who come to see me from Michigan,” Prendergast says. “In March I will be taking some new patients at my direct primary care practice in BremenMint City Health & Wellness.”

While developing her business, Prendergast knew she wanted to focus on a cashbased model. Although she does not

accept insurance, it gives her patients the opportunity to pay an affordable monthly membership fee. This fee covers all office visits, as well as additional services. This approach gives patients without insurance, and those who have a high deductible, the chance to receive the same high-quality care as other clinics.

The roots of Max Metabolic date back far beyond the concept of the clinic. “I got started in the health industry as a registered nurse by working in the hospital setting, but

my true love is fitness,” Prendergast says.

She began teaching women’s fitness classes in her hometown of Bremen, where she was motivated and excited to see how she could help women be physically stronger and feel mentally encouraged. Combining her passion for fitness with her desire to help others is what ultimately led her to want to become a nurse, and help people find their path to a healthier lifestyle.

What sets Max Metabolic apart is the

passion that Prendergast has to help her patients reach their ultimate goals. She acts on this passion by educating people so they understand the value of health and wellness. Once the patient understands the importance of this, they are often encouraged to spread their knowledge to others, and an increasing number of people lift each other up and help each other become - and most importantly, stay - healthy.

As technology continues to advance, Max

Metabolic has taken full advantage of helping clients with virtual consultations and appointments. This allows patients to avoid coming into the clinic, whether due to illness, insecurity or time constraints. The team at Max Metabolic also offers virtual appointments on the weekends and in the evenings to provide convenience to those who work or have children.

Although Prendergast declares herself a “one-man show,” this does not stop her from providing high-quality care for her patients. In fact, her background is quite impressive. She obtained a master’s degree in nursing from Ball State University, and a bachelor’s degree in the Spanish language from Bethel University. Beyond that, she has additional training in thyroid health, weight management, hormone replacement for men and women, and functional medicine.

As the business continues to grow, Prendergast hopes to expand her services to the community and beyond. She is

bilingual, making for a unique clinical setting for those who speak Spanish.

“Getting my own business up and running has been one of the hardest and most stressful things I’ve ever done, but I’m learning every day that you gain confidence and feel so empowered when you do things that scare you a little bit,” she says. “It makes it all worth it to me when I have a patient tell me they feel so much better or more confident in their skin because of my guidance.”

If you are interested in a consultation or beginning a program, call 574-301-4351 or email MintCityHealth@hush.com. For more info, go to maxmetabolicwellness. com, and you can also like and follow Mint City Health & Wellness on Facebook.

Along a rolling ribbon of highway that winds westward of Bremen, the landscape is dotted with tidy homes, vast expanses of farmland, and a modest grouping of historic buildings. Regarding the latter, echoes of a legacy once resonated within those walls. But across the years, the weathered structures became silent and still - that is, until a group of visionaries saw beyond the muted and mellowed facades and harnessed unrealized potential.

Through the works of the Bremen Arts Collective, the complex at 6812 State Road 106 is now a showcase of brilliance and beauty, which stands ready to foster artistry of countless mediums and methods.

The origin of this endeavor dates back to February of 2021, when the founder of Bremen Arts Collective, Derek Jensen, launched the institution as a nonprofit organization. In short order, an ideal site for the future multifaceted art studio was

chosen - one that held special significance for Jensen.

It was a place well-known to longtime Bremen residents, owned and operated by a family with deep community roots. The former Senff Wood Products property was well-suited for this ambitious reimagining, and Jensen, a descendant of the Senff family, seemed the best candidate to do exactly that.

By the fall of 2021, the renovations had begun in earnest, and continued until the summer of 2023. As the project concluded, plans were already being laid for the first Bremen Art Market, which took place in October. The official ribbon cutting and grand-opening celebration was held in June of 2023. The facility was outfitted with five private art studios to house local artisans and give them workspaces for their craftsmanship.

There is also a shared studio with spacious

proportions for combined interests, wood shop, gallery, meeting space, and classroomstyle room to be used for specialized classes. To date, all five of the private studios are now occupied.

Well before the final phases of the renovation were completed, it became quite evident that the concept of a freestyle art studio was going to be very well-received by Bremen. Classes were scheduled for various forms of art creation, and just as fast as the word went out for registration, the classes reached capacity.

“There is a vibrant subculture of arts and crafts in the local area just itching to get out,” Jensen says. “We hope to cultivate that, and see it bloom and beautify the town.”

To that end, a board of directors was implemented and a mission statement was crafted as follows: “To nurture, develop, and enable a community of local artists and artisans by providing the opportunity to

create, collaborate, and educate.” Somewhat unofficially, the more concise version of the Bremen Arts Collective’s goal is for folks to “Make Some Art,” a whimsical little message that found its way onto the breakroom refrigerator, spelled out with wooden magnets.

their time and talents to the new workshop, and there are continued beautification efforts planned for 2024. Southwire assisted with the installation of acoustic panels, and the Psi Iota Xi sorority worked with Woodie’s Supermarket to sponsor nutrition classes. This year, local artist Kristyn Kertai, representing Heartland Artists, will be creating a mural that will represent a colorful panorama design connecting the

complex of buildings.

And of course, there will be classes for both fledgling and sophisticated artists. There are limitless options to foster artistic inspiration. Coming this spring and summer, there will be courses in various types of painting, drawing, stained glass work, soap and candle making, tie dye, crochet, jewelry, paper quilling, calligraphy, and more, as schedules and interests warrant.

Also coming up this spring, Bremen Arts Collective will be aligning with Psi Iota Xi to present the Spring Into Art Maker’s Market. The date is set for Saturday, May 18 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The artisan market will feature live music, food trucks and student art awards. Everyone is welcome to attend.

To peruse a complete list of future courses, and to stay apprised of changes and new features, visit bremenarts.com.

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Aaron Stover Group Leader; Paul Elvidge Pier Supervisor; Evey Lockhart Pier Supervisor; David Davidsen Owner; Shanna Davidsen General Manager

Writer / Amy Lant-Wenger Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Within seconds of entering a particular North Webster business, guests are quite likely to be greeted by David Davidsen, whose breezy and casual manner is a reflection of the lake ambience he so dearly loves. The conversations that follow make it starkly evident that Davidsen is a man among the fortunate few who have been able to parlay that fondness and wisdom into a passion for an enduring career.

Those reasons, and so much more, speak to the success of the business that bears his name. Davidsen’s Pier Service and Sales has become a reputable resource for accents and amenities, to fully embrace life along Kosciusko County’s scenic lakeshores.

Launched in 1999, Davidsen’s is an easy drive along State Road 13, where folks are invited to imagine how they can transform their modest shorelines into spectacular showcases. The establishment, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, is the place to go to find

premium supplies, equipment and services for docks, boat lifts, shading solutions and parts. With a talented team of installation experts and consultants, there is a definite sense of camaraderie present, a notion that Davidsen does not take for granted.

Davidsen’s wife, Shanna, works alongside her husband in an administrative capacity. Davidsen’s sensibilities have not strayed far from somewhat humble beginnings in realizing his calling. While his jovial nature is a definite asset, perhaps even more impressive is his knowledge for the profession and devotion to his customers. It all started, he recalls, when he volunteered to “help out a buddy with a project. The next thing we knew, we started working on 50, 60, 100 piers, and things just kind of took off from there. Some of the older gentlemen I met mentored me and taught me the right way to do things. We’re all about respect and honesty, and we’ll do whatever it takes to get the job done.”

One of the most popular product lines Davidsen’s offers is the DockDeck system. The decking is created with the look of woodgrain, but created with 100% vinyl planks. The material is crafted with a maintenance-free concept, with UV protection, slip-resistant patterns and features that ensure ease of installation. It’s an ideal option for those who see the potential in creating a patio setting with their docks, using the enhanced space as a kind of extension to their homes.

The business also specializes in boat lifts for watercraft of many sizes. Davidsen’s is the only dealership in northern Indiana to carry the FLOE line of products - all-aluminum lifts accented with stainless steel hardware. Additional collections include ShoreStation, Atlas, and Maxx jet ski lifts.

Davidsen doesn’t have a specific secret or reason for his growth and formidable reputation. His strategies are simple and straightforward. He prefers to keep his

Shanna Davidsen General Manager & David Davidsen Owner

customer base local, across Kosciusko County, and he’s committed to integrity and principles.

“I really don’t have to advertise much,” he says. “It’s mostly word of mouth. I can land as much business as I want just by talking to the customers, and listening to what they have to say. I don’t ever pressure anyone to buy anything. I ask them, ‘How can I make your lake experience better?’ and maybe 70% of them, we’re able to close a deal.”

Davidsen adds that there really isn’t an off season for the company, as they are equipped to help install and remove piers and other related items at virtually any time of year. Already, he says, folks are clamoring to be among the first ones to get their piers ready for the water this year. He estimates that the staff handles approximately 6,400 sections of piers and 680 boat lifts in a season. He also takes pride in offering a price-match guarantee on his inventory. More often than not, he notes, one-time

Brighton | Kendra Scott

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625 Main

guests eventually become repeat patrons.

“We’ve gotten very lucky,” he says. “We’ve had customers bring us dinners, and they bring us cookies. We like to bring smiles to our customers’ faces.”

As for what the future holds for Davidsen’s, there don’t appear to be any drastic changes in the offing, although Davidsen says he might consider purchasing some additional property at some point in time. “We’re having a good season,” he says. “We have a lot of product and a great team. Things are good. I’m right where I want to be.”

Davidsen’s Pier Service and Sales is located at 4894 North Baldwin Road North, in North Webster. They have a detailed website at davidsenspierservice.com, and they can be reached via phone at 574-834-1670. Also email contact@davidsenspierservice.com to schedule an appointment.

Open: TuesdayFriday: 10-6 Saturday: 10-3

Aaron Stover Group Leader

The Lakehouse Grille has been a central figure on Lakeshore Drive in Culver for more than a dozen years. Friday night karaoke and a diverse full menu are longtime favorites of Culver residents and visitors alike.

“We pride ourselves on making everything from scratch and serving an audience with diverse palates and desires, whether they are dressed up for a golden anniversary celebration or in flip-flops off the lake,” says Owner Mark Damore Jr.

Damore is always looking for ways to draw more people to the town he also calls home with his wife, Dana, and their 6-year-old son, Liam. Damore notes the unique collaborative nature among other business owners in Culver. “The healthier the town of Culver is for all of us business owners and patrons, the better it is for everyone who lives here and visits Culver,” he says.

BRINGING SOMETHING NEW TO THE TABLE

FRESH MENU ADDITIONS AND A TASTE FOR COMMUNITY

KEEP THINGS COOKING AT THE LAKEHOUSE GRILLE IN CULVER Writer / Darcie Dodds Schott

Chef Mo -Sushi Chef

Recently, Damore and a nearby shop owner discovered a win-win for a new employee, who happens to be the star of a newly launched menu feature that Damore anticipates will attract a greater audience to Culver - sushi, with a focus on Japanese cuisine priorities and philosophy of seasonal, simple and sublime.

Sushi Chef Alex Mozer, or, as locals know her, Chef Mo, is fresh from a month-long training at sushi school in Los Angeles, California, and her passion for preparation and presentation is palpable when she talks about the colors and flavors of finely crafted sushi. “Japanese cuisine focuses on five colors: black, white,

green, red and yellow,” she says. “The key is vibrant color and taste, highlighting the flavor of every ingredient. Food needs to taste, look and sound good, and be consistent with itself. Simple food made perfectly is a fantastic model for cooking.”

This addition to The Lakehouse Grille began last summer, when Mozer applied for a kitchen position at Lakehouse. But Damore had another position in mind for her. He explained his plan to reintroduce superior sushi to The Lakehouse Grille, which would include the new sushi chef attending a month-long training at sushi school near the iconic beach city of Redondo Beach, California. Mozer’s eyes widened with an enthusiastic “Yes!”

Damore found Mozer’s excitement to explore a new professional direction inspiring. As a 2018 graduate from Culver Girls Academy, Mozer stood out to Damore, with notable strengths of leadership and good time management. Damore believed Mozer would be the strategic addition to The Lakehouse Grille team that he had been seeking - energetic, creative and eager to learn. Damore offered to make the capital investment in training for Mozer. The only drawback was that the plan wouldn’t begin for six months, when she would travel to California to attend sushi school. Damore turned to fellow Culver business owner Dawn Brockey of Culver Coffee Company for Mozer’s employment until the January start of sushi school. It just so happened that Brockey’s business needed

Owners Mark & Dana Damore with Son Liam

to fill some staff needs, and before Mozer was back in her car from the interview, she had a job and was in a new professional direction.

An Ohio native, Mozer honed her food preparation and presentation skills at the Simply Rolled Ice Cream shop in the Short North Arts District in Columbus, Ohio. “People

skills in a kitchen can’t be undervalued,” she says. “Arguments have no place in an efficient workplace. Instead, approaching conflict with novelty and interest, and learning what is going on, will bring resolution.”

This kind of perspective helped earn Mozer the title of head chef, managing the staff and often a 100-deep line of customers out the

Mozer welcomed the wait time in Culver until her upcoming sushi training. “The Midwest in general is a fantastic place to live,” she says. “There are nice people who make eye contact and wave at others. I’m known to make cookies for my neighbors, including one of my former teachers who I credit for instilling in me a true love of learning.”

She brought that love to the sushi school in California, scoring 94 out of 100 on the final written test, finishing at the top of her class in the process of presenting a unique Japanese appetizer and sushi roll to the judging table before the master sushi chefs. Her choice of going off-script by using fruit in her sushi was commended. Chef

Mo was born.

This superior finish to her training culminated after weeks of confronting the unknown. Not only did she walk into the first day of sushi training in California to a greeting in Japanese from the chefs, but there was also the language of ingredients, the process and the presentation. Chef Mo’s newly adopted Japanese mottos include “Ohayo gozaimasu,” which is a greeting. “Go chisou sama deshita” marks the end of meal, with gratitude for enjoying delicious food.

“Food safety is so insanely important,” Mozer says. “The pH, acidity and vinegar levels are all significant elements to creating excellent sushi. There are very tight windows to make sure the taste, safety and texture of sushi are enjoyed at the highest level.”

In the way only someone extremely confident from practiced discipline can, Chef Mo outlines the road to culinary success. “Manage your time,” she says. “Manage your food prep. Do it right the first time, so you are prepared to do the correct thing on a busy night when you have 30 tickets. In the end, it’s important to be consistent and care about the food you are making.”

Once back in Indiana, Chef Mo set out to forge relationships with

regional suppliers of top-quality ingredients critical to creating top-quality sushi. From sushi paper to seaweed nori, rice varieties and endless seasonings, she has found it all, mostly at South Bend’s Saigon Market. “The art of managing purveyors and quality products draws on a restaurant owner’s experience,” Damore says.

Customers will find a selection of sushi rolls as regular menu items, including the Lakehouse Roll, California Roll, Spicy Tuna, Salmon, Sashimi, Nigiri (rice, fish and wasabi), and vegetarian rolls such as Kappamaki (cucumber and rice). The menu will rotate unique sushi items that use seasonal ingredients.

“We certainly have never needed sushi to survive, but we acknowledge that many of our patrons enjoy it and we never want to let any patrons down,” Damore says. “This is an awesome place to visit, to live, to experience. If sushi could be a little hook to draw someone to Culver for a night, a weekend or a lifetime, that’s a great thing for the town. If we can introduce sushi to a child that is kind of picky and expand their culinary horizons, then I believe we would be doing that family a great service, which I love. We want to make all of our guests happy every time, every visit.”

The Lakehouse Grille is located at 620 East Lakeshore Drive in Culver. For more information or to make a reservation, call 574 842-2234. Also visit thelakehouseculver.com.

APRIL CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1.

4.

8.

12.

13.

DOWN

1. Cavern sight

2. I problem?

3. High school subject

4. Bank loan security

5. Calculator, at times

6. Go unsteadily

7. Full of guile

8. Doctor’s orders

9. Beginning to freeze?

10. Aggressively publicize

11. Blood category

19. Coffee preference

20. Base caller

21. Pouches

22. Leaky faucet sound

38. London’s ___ Court

39. Kathmandu country

41. Friends and neighbors

42. Extinct flock

45. Celebrity ribfest

47. Superior to

24. Software error

26. Wanders

28. Annoyance

29. List

30. Dress-uniform part

32. Frost’s bite?

34. Thousand ___, Calif.

37. Ruined

39. Expected outcomes

40. River through Tours

42. Spoil, with “on”

43. It’s within your range

44. Word with heat or meat

46. Biblical conclusion

48. French beverage

50. Haole’s souvenir

51. Cheerleader’s asset

49. Chalet site, perhaps

52. Club

53. “Take this!”

54. Born in France?

55. Bounds

56. “Paradise Lost” setting

57. Bonus for waiting

SUPERBLY SERVED

GET BOWLED OVER BY NEW KITCHEN STORE’S NEWEST DINNERWARE PRODUCTS

One of my favorite times of the day when raising our children was sitting at the supper table and sharing the happenings of the day. School, farm, chores, conflicts - it just didn’t matter. It kept us all together and we learned different lessons through the year from each other’s experiences. We never had any problems getting all the kids to the table. Just having a home-cooked meal with dessert was enough. We spent time discussing some of the activities and fun places we liked to see and visit. We bought a mug wherever our travels would then take us, to remind us of all the things we have seen and done over the years.

When I saw the FIFTYEIGHT dinnerware line showing animated faces on the various pieces, I just had to bring it into the store. Their logo is “Smile at the Table.” I looked at the different faces and could remember just what made our faces smile. The pouty face is precious. I like to pout about all the things I could have done and never did, but the extra-happy face is also one of my favorites. They have a new line called the Heavenly design, featuring a face that looks into the clouds. What a thought - I can watch clouds as I eat my cereal.

There are smug faces as well as lipstick-kiss-covered faces. There are tongues hanging out and even a barf bowl, where whatever you put in it comes out the mouth (I am not getting that one for myself). There is also a dreamy face, a tasty face and so much more. How I wish they made these when the kids were still at home.

They are fairly new to America, 100% made in Germany out of

high-quality clay, and clean up very well. These will be gifts that keep on making smiles at the table.

What can be even better than kissing?

Easy - being kissed! The 16-ounce Movie-edition bowl not only dazzles with colorful eyes, but has also been kissed all over.

They are not only for the table; they also have a travel mug that has colored silicone bands to keep your hands from getting hot. They also come in four basic designs. Age is no concern on this pattern as well. We have had young, old and every age in

between using this pattern, which is called TASSEN.

They are genuine hard porcelain, in an 11-ounce capacity perfect for serving noodle soup, salads and much more. They are dishwasher and microwave safe, and can be shipped in an exclusively designed gift box.

Visit New Kitchen Store at 1100 Roosevelt Road in Walkerton to look at the collection. For more info, call 574-586-2745 or visit newkitchenstore.com.

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books.

Hochstetler, co-owner of Little Nook Bookstore, says she was glad she made the decision.

“We opened in 2004, and we have been able to get customers by offering books they are very interested in reading,” she says. “I coown the business with my husband, Aden. It’s been a lot of fun to have this business. The main reason I started this bookstore is

Amanda Hochstetler’s love of reading led her to open a business that would enable her to be surrounded by

that I love to read, and I have been able to share that love of reading with other people. I also like to talk to them about books.”

Hochstetler notes that the books at Little Nook Bookstore appeal to a wide audience.

“We have books for all ages to love,” she says. “We have a lot of true stories, Bibles and devotional books that people have really seemed to enjoy.”

Hochstetler also likes the fact that parents feel good and comfortable about sending their kids to Little Nook Bookstore.

“Kids can come here and pick out a nice, wholesome book to read, and their parents don’t have to worry about them,” she says. “That makes me feel great. We have books for preschoolers, grade-school children, and older kids.”

Little Nook Bookstore also features a variety of books for adults to enjoy.

“We have a nice selection of books to choose from, and I have received a lot of compliments from happy customers,” she says. “I also enjoy giving out book recommendations.”

Hochstetler says Little Nook Bookstore originally started in her home. “We eventually moved to another building very close to our house,” she says. “We use most of that building for Little Nook Bookstore. It was great to be able to expand the business.”

Hochstetler notes that Little Nook Bookstore features other products besides books.

“We have some wonderful greeting cards and gifts,” she says. “We also have games and puzzles, clocks, toys, and school supplies. We have some very nice bookmarks, as well as wonderful stationary and a variety of journals. We have some really nice, highquality, handmade purses and handbags

that really look wonderful. They are from Pennsylvania.”

Hochstetler says she treasures and appreciates all her customers.

“We have some customers that bring in the whole family to find something to read,” she says. “I enjoy talking to them about books, and finding out what books we have coming in that they might be interested in reading. I like helping people pick out their books and their next great reads.”

Hochstetler notes that the cold winter months are always a great time for readers.

“It’s always nice to cozy up with a great book,” she says. “I think a lot of people tend to read more in November, December, January and February. We remain busy after Christmas, and that’s been encouraging. Things tend to slow down in March, but we still have our steady, loyal customers. We also aren’t always as busy in the summer,

but that’s alright because we have more things going on at home.”

Hochstetler loves reading books from different genres.

“I love any book I can get my hands on,” she says. “Reading is such a joy. I enjoy reading my kids’ books.”

To get your next great book for a cozy night of reading, visit Little Nook Bookstore at 13871 North 1050 West in Nappanee. For more information, call 574-773-2107.

This month, for the first time since 1869, many Hoosiers will have the opportunity to witness the rare phenomenon of a total solar eclipse. Readers may remember the partial eclipse of August 21, 2017, the nearest totality being south of our state.

The total solar eclipse will take place on April 8, 2024, and will start around 1:45 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (12:45 p.m. Central). It will be completed by 4:30 p.m. EST, though the length of totality is much shorter, expected to start around 3 p.m. EST and last between two and four minutes, depending upon location in the state (details on that follow near the end of this article).

The range of totality stretches from around the east-central portion of the state to the southwest, which means local Lakes Magazine readers wishing to see it will need to travel southwards.

And while many Hoosiers may recall partial solar eclipses through the decades of the mid-20th to early 21st centuries (and lunar eclipses are another matter entirely), this month’s event will be the last until September 24, 2099, when another will occur in the Fort Wayne area, or June 3, 2505, when central Indiana will experience another total solar eclipse, according to the website of the Charles

W. Brown Planetarium at Ball State University in Muncie.

Last year on October 14, the second annular solar eclipse (when the moon obscures part of the sun) of the 2020s worldwide - and the only one of the decade in which the path of annularity went through the U.S. - took place, though only about about 42% of the sun was covered in parts of Indiana.

The aforementioned 2017 “Great American Eclipse” was the first solar eclipse visible across the entire U.S. since 1918, and the first total eclipse of the sun visible in the mainland U.S. since 1979, though about 90% of the sun was obscured in some parts of Indiana (Carbondale, Illinois, holds the distinction of experiencing total eclipse on August 21, 2017, as well as again this month, on April 8, 2024).

The last significant partial eclipse visible in Indiana prior to that took place October 23, 2014, and the largest in recent memory was the May 10, 1994, annular eclipse, which, in Indianapolis, covered 91% of the sun.

The last total eclipse in the Hoosier state took place August 7, 1869.

The very first photograph of a total eclipse was captured in 1851 by a Russian photographer known as Berkowski.

Some 98% of the sun was covered in southern Indiana towns like Bloomington and Evansville. The Plymouth Republican newspaper of August 5 that year wrote that “In Marshall County the eclipse will only be partial but will doubtless be sufficiently interesting to attract general attention, provided the weather be favorable.”

Prior to that eclipse, according to the website of the Brown Planetarium, the last total solar eclipse visible from parts of Indiana took place way back on September 14, 1205, though a coast-tocoast eclipse put a good deal of northern Indiana in the path of totality for over two minutes on July 29, 957.

Also along historical lines, the ancient Babylonian mathematical acumen was such that they could actually predict eclipses, though, like many ancient cultures, considered them bad omens, particularly for their royalty. Supposedly they sat a commoner on the throne during the eclipse, killing him afterwards just to be safe.

One famous story from eclipse history goes that Chinese court astronomers some 4,000 years ago were executed for being drunk and failing to forecast an eclipse. Similarly well-known is the story of the death of King Henry I of England in 1133, which coincided with a solar eclipse. Civil war and social chaos occurred following the incident.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, battling armies in Turkey took a solar eclipse in 585 BC as a sign that they should cease their fighting, and they did so after 15 years of warfare.

Other odd reactions to eclipses include the case of a woman deeply troubled by predictions of doomsday at a 1749 eclipse, locking herself in a room and cutting her arm until she bled to death, according to the London Evening Post at the time.

A much more positive historic moment surrounding a solar eclipse occurred on July 28, 1851, when a Russian photographer named Berkowski took the first successful image of a total eclipse, shooting from the Royal Observatory in Königsberg, Prussia (today’s Kaliningrad, Russia), exposing a daguerreotype plate for 84 seconds.

The age-old myth that an eclipse can be dangerous to pregnant women still persists in some circles today, deriving no doubt from the fact that total or near-total eclipses have tended to cause ostensibly strange phenomena in nature including the fact that birds, insects and animals may go almost eerily quiet. Of course, the logical explanation for this is that their nighttime instincts kick in and they respond accordingly, heading for trees and nests to bed down.

Among other relevant “fun facts” regarding eclipses, it might interest readers to know that the moon’s shadow zips across Earth’s surface at up to 5,000 miles per hour. Total solar eclipses occur on our planet because the sun happens to be 400 times larger than the moon, but also is 400 times farther from the Earth, making the both appear the exact same size in the sky - and Earth is unique in our solar system because of this.

In any given place, total solar eclipses average only once every 360 years, though they cannot be seen at all from either the North or South Pole.

Readers planning to travel to a Hoosier locale where the total eclipse can be experienced may note some odd-seeming occurrences, including a potential 10- to 15-degree drop in temperature. Wind may seem to dissipate or even stop. This takes place because, as the sun disappears behind the moon, the ground cools rapidly, much as it does at sunset. This causes warm air to stop rising from the ground and, consequentially, a drop in wind speed and a shift in its direction.

Shortly before the total eclipse, “Baily’s beads” appear where sunlight shines through valleys on the moon, with the last of these creating what appears as a diamond ring in the sky. The phenomenon is named for British astronomer Francis Baily, who, in May 1836, posited that the moon’s uneven surface of hills and valleys blocks or allows sunlight to show through to our eyes, creating the spectacular effect of the “beads.”

During the eclipse, any planets visible in the sky at the time may be seen as points of light. Shadows will change in appearance and, relating to the nighttime-oriented behavior referenced above, some animals may become confused or act strangely (so reassuring your dog may not be a bad idea, though it’s recommended to simply leave him or her at home in northern Indiana if traveling to an eclipse viewing area).

Also, it takes around an hour before complete daylight is restored following a total eclipse.

Viewing safety is another matter to consider if one plans to experience this month’s eclipse. Approved safety glasses may be ordered or purchased, and while it actually is safe to look directly towards the sun during actual totality, caution should be taken before and after.

According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the center of the path of totality on April 8 will bring darkness for around four minutes, with times dropping proportionally depending on distance from the center.

Times of totality for specific areas of Indiana may be found online at Eclipse2024.org. They include:

Muncie: The eclipse begins at 1:52 p.m. EST with totality at 3:07 p.m. Totality of duration is approximately three minutes and 45 seconds.

Indianapolis: Eclipse visibility starts at 1:50 p.m. with totality beginning at 3:06 p.m. Duration is just over three minutes and 45 seconds.

Bluffton: The eclipse starts around 1:53 p.m., becoming total at 3:08 p.m., lasting two minutes and 33 seconds.

Down south in Bloomington, the eclipse begins at 1:49 p.m. with totality starting at 3:05 p.m. Totality duration is just over four minutes.

The State of Indiana Department of Homeland Security website has a special section on the 2024 eclipse at in.gov/dhs/solar-eclipse-2024, with a plethora of resources. Included in the site’s “Where to Go” section are event listings closer to home, even if the eclipse is only partial in the north-central and northwest Indiana areas. Among these are viewing parties or events at Valparaiso parks, the Indiana Dunes State Park, North Webster Public Library, Science Project Brewing in Logansport, Science Central in Fort Wayne, and more.

HAVE A SEAT

TABLE AND CHAIR RENTAL OWNERS FIND AN IMPORTANT LOCAL NICHE

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Daniel Beechy Jr., co-owner of Table and Chair Rental, says when he and his wife, Esther, took over the business, they wanted to keep it going to help the community.

“The Table and Chair Rental trailer had previously been owned by a friend,” Beechy Jr. says. “He wasn’t able to devote the time to it that he wanted, so he made the decision to sell it. We had used it a few times previously for Amish funerals, and it got to the point where we thought we almost couldn’t do without it.”

Beechy Jr. decided he and Esther could take over the business. “Rather than seeing it get sold to somebody out of this area, we

chose to just buy it ourselves and continue renting it out. The aforementioned friend worked at Forest River RV. They always had a problem finding affordable tables and chairs for their company picnic. Seeing a solution to their problem, he bought a trailer, some tables and chairs and started renting them out to others.”

Table and Chair Rental has been able to continue garnering business, and they are always interested in getting new customers.

“We are getting a lot of bookings for weddings and other events that are scheduled some time in advance, so it’s a good idea to reserve your spot as soon as you can,” Beechy Jr. says.

Table and Chair Rental rents out a trailer with tables and chairs for parties and events.

“What’s neat about it is you get the whole thing delivered to your event,” Beechy Jr. says. “There’s no running to a friend to

borrow a trailer. Just one phone call takes care of everything. People find renting this package less expensive than paying by the piece from rental companies. We know that for most events, you need your tables and chairs at least one day in advance to set up. Therefore, we have a policy of providing one day of rental for free, for this purpose.”

The trailer includes 40 8-foot tables and 300 chairs. It can be picked up or delivered.

“The trailer has a fair amount of tongue weight, so an F-150 truck isn’t big enough for towing,” Beechy Jr. says.

The trailer also comes with a hitching rope.

“The hitching rope is for tying horses at Amish events,” Beechy Jr. says.

Beechy Jr. says he has had some interesting experiences.

“We had one event where they needed to

stack tables on top of each other for clothes storage,” he says. “The event was in a tent. It happened to get windy, and the tent sides would blow in and hit the tables, knocking the top tables off. To solve that problem, I made fixtures that attach to the bottom tables where the legs of the top tables sit into, which keeps them from sliding off.”

The Beechys own another business.

“We own Clearspring Manufacturing, where we manufacture and distribute hardwood RV components,” Beechy Jr. says. “We also recently added another product line - custom closets. This takes up all my time, so Esther oversees all the scheduling and billing for the table and chair trailer.”

The Beechys enjoy living in Topeka. “We like the sense of community,” Beechy Jr. says. “It’s amazing how when something happens, how the community just drops everything they were doing so they can help out. I can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

To rent tables and chairs for your next event, call Table and Chair Rental at 260-593-2086, ext. 1.

Whiskey

Half

Wholesale

Wilma Graves is a softspoken soul who laughs easily and has a generous spirit. She is a devoted volunteer for a number of worthwhile causes, and as she chats and reminisces, there always seems to be a smile on her face.

She does have a great deal to be joyful about these days. Graves, a resident of Rochester, has dedicated herself to healthier, more vibrant living, and the results of her mission have been extraordinary. She has been a member of the organization known as TOPS, which stands for Take Off Pounds Sensibly, for the past several years.

Through her commitment to the program, and bolstered by the fellowship of her friends in the club, she dropped nearly 150 pounds, which was the highest margin of weight shed by a female in the state for the year 2022 according to the TOPS organization.

This achievement led to Graves being christened the Indiana Queen. And perhaps just as astonishing as the goal she was able to reach, she has also managed to stay within range of her targeted weight ever since.

TOPS emphasizes changing habits, as well as moderation over restrictions and rules. Founded in 1948, TOPS has a network of devotees that stretches across North America, and thousands upon thousands of success stories from both men and women, some as young as 7 years old, and well into adulthood.

Indiana TOPS members were able to log an astonishing 6,827 pounds of lost weight in 2022. The key components to this kind of milestone stem from the club’s methodology in offering wellness education, weekly meetings and peer support, and adjusting the mindset and attitudes about food.

“We are tremendously proud of our TOPS members’ weight-loss accomplishments,” said TOPS President Rick Danforth. “Through their TOPS membership, these individuals are able to celebrate their own life-altering accomplishments, as well as other members and those that have come before them. By continuing their commitment to personal lifestyle changes, a hallmark of TOPS winning formula, TOPS members utilize the tools they are given and the assistance from their peers to achieve their weight-loss

goals.”

Danforth can absolutely be considered an authority on the TOPS program. He himself has been a 20-year participant, having lost and kept off 100 pounds along the journey.

The prospect of weight loss can be a daunting one, particularly in a world where convenience and processed food is at an all-time high. Currently, approximately 42% of American adults are considered obese, with Indiana’s rate standing at 36.3%. Being significantly overweight can trigger a host of health issues including diabetes, heart disease, stroke and certain types of cancer.

So what was the impetus for Graves to chart her own healthier future? She wanted to feel better, of course. But one day, she recalls, she caught a glimpse of her reflection in a storefront window, and she no longer recognized what she’d become.

That was the day, she said, that she declared, “I’ve got to do something.” She attended her first meeting, but not without some initial trepidation.

“I’m not a brave person and I don’t like to do things by myself,” she said. “I was shaking like a leaf.” Soon, however, the group of members welcomed her with open arms, and the new chapter of

Graves’ story began.

It was there that Graves learned about keeping a food journal. She discovered that portion control is a helpful tool. She modified her daily menu to include three meals a day and two snacks. She does drastically alter her intake of breads, pastas and potatoes, and enjoys meals that accent proteins and salads. “It’s not a diet,” Graves said, noting that each individual will take on an approach best suited for him or her. “It’s trial and error. Everything in moderation.”

While Graves doesn’t have a particular exercise regimen that she follows, she would like to begin walking sometime soon. She’s waiting for a prospective surgery to repair knee damage, but she’s excited for the possibility of being outdoors.

TOPS members can join for in-person meetings or through online sessions. Folks can work through challenges, receive advice from guest speakers, receive motivation through incentive programs, and triumph together.

Membership is $49 annually at the national franchise level, with additional nominal local fees. For more details, call 800-9328677 or visit tops.org.

Sam Wesson and Lauren Hill, co-owners of PIG ‘N A PEN food truck, say they appreciate all the customers who rave about their food.

They have attracted a loyal customer base since they started. Many customers wait for them to open for business.

“We opened for business in Culver, Indiana, on March 31, 2023,” Wesson says.

This was after they served food in another

city, according to Hill.

“PIG ‘N A PEN originally opened the summer of 2015 in Portland, Oregon, with my older brother, Derek,” Hill says. “After a year or so of business, he decided to bring the cart back home to Indiana where he operated it on and off, until we took it over this past year.”

Wesson says the food has been a big hit.

“We specialize in a hand-breaded pork

tenderloin sandwich,” Wesson says. “It’s what we were built on and it used to be the only thing on the menu. This is no fritter. This is a hand-cut, twice-cubed, marinated and hand-pounded cutlet of tender, loving care. In order to get full utilization of the pork loin, we also offer boneless ‘pig wings.’ We eventually added the fish sandwich to the menu, made with Alaska pollock, as well as a cheeseburger made with local beef. People rave about our fries as well as our house-made, secret Hoosier sauce.”

Hill notes that customers have their food truck favorites.

“What people seem to keep coming back for over and over is the deluxe tenderloin,” Hill says. “They also love our smash burger, and the way it is made. But mostly what they love is our exclusive, once-a-month, madefrom-scratch egg rolls, and homemade, Thai-inspired dipping sauce.”

Hill has her own personal favorite.

“My personal favorite has to be the Hoosier tenderloin with pickle and onion,” she says. “The Hoosier tenderloin is our homage to Penguin Point, which comes with American cheese and cabbage, dressed in our housemade Hoosier sauce.”

Wesson also has a favorite.

“For me it’s hands-down the Alaska pollock fish sandwich,” he says. “It’s a lightly battered, fresh, flaky fish on a steamy bun, with tangy Hoosier sauce, thinly shredded

lettuce and a slice of American cheese. One bite puts me on cloud nine every time.”

Hill says customers can find them easily, in the parking lot of Town & Country Liquors in Culver at the intersection of Highway 10 and Highway 17.

Hill says she and Wesson have enjoyed getting to know their customers.

“Most of our customers are regulars who we’ve had the joy of getting to know over

the course of our first year, and we are excited to see those familiar faces come April 1,” Hill says.

Wesson says there are some fun days ahead.

“Our opening day is April 1, 2024, and yes, there will be egg rolls,” he says. “Our only public events on the books as of now are the Mayor’s Months of Music in Plymouth, Indiana, every Friday night starting in July, running through the first week of September.”

“We have a few graduation parties already on the books, along with a couple of catered lunches for businesses,” Hill says, adding that they also offer catering.

For more information including details on booking private events, call 574-780-2635 or email pignapen@gmail.com. Also follow them on Facebook and Instagram @pignapen.

HELP THROUGH TROUBLED TIMES

Writer / Ali Schneider Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

We all have events that change the trajectory of our life. That is exactly what happened to Viki Brown in 2016.

She was a school teacher and worked full time along with her husband, Dustin Brown. Life changed drastically when Dustin died unexpectedly in 2016. As a full-time working female at the age of 34, and a mother of three little ones, Brown had to face the reality that was ahead of her.

As she tried to navigate these new waters, she was also trying to help her three little children cope as well.

Death is a tricky subject. It does not come naturally to anyone and we all deal with it differently. When children are involved and they are trying to understand what happened, it becomes even more difficult. In order to try to explain life and death to young ones, Brown realized there was not a great support system, or even

counseling, in the local area to help children understand their feelings and what they are experiencing.

This led her to create Dustin’s Place, which is dedicated to providing free grief support to children aged 4 through 18. Her vision was to provide a safe space for children who have experienced the death of a sibling or family member - a place they could rely on to open up and have support.

Dustin’s Place is one of only five certified children’s grief support centers in Indiana. They rely solely on donations so children and families do not have to worry about paying the bill. Instead, they are focused on helping clients deal with the trauma, hurt and pain that goes along with experiencing death. Beyond that, clients are surrounded by others who have been, or are currently in, the same situation as them.

There is no wait list for Dustin’s Place. They accept new individuals immediately because it is crucial to start the healing process as soon as possible. Many children internalize it because they do not know where to turn, which can lead to mental health issues down the road.

In order to make children feel safe and relaxed, Dustin’s Place invites the entire family to attend their biweekly Monday meetings. The meetings are group-based, and led by one of the 21 volunteers. The get-togethers begin with a home-cooked meal and gathering

with other families and children.

Brown says there are typically around 10 groups that gather at the same time at these meetings. They come from near and far, and are of all ages and races. Dustin’s Place is dedicated to reaching out to the community.

One of the ways they do this is by physically going into schools and reaching out to children that need grief support. Usually, the school counselor will be involved in this process and provide a list

Dustin’s Place Volunteers

of children in need. However, even if the child has not shown signs of needing support, they are always welcome to sign up to be a part of Dustin’s Place.

Brown says most children need approximately eight to 12 months of support in order to begin to heal from the stress and hurt that comes with the death of a loved one. However, they do not cut children out of the program, and they are welcome to remain a part of it for as long as needed.

In 2023 Dustin’s Place helped over 400 individuals deal with their grief. They are growing exponentially and have no plans to slow down.

“The most rewarding part of my job is finding purpose to work with

the community and help others,” Brown says.

Aside from grief support, Dustin’s Place also offers programs for spousal bereavement, family support, suicide bereavement, substance use disorder, and programs for adults.

For anyone experiencing the pain that comes with the death of a loved one, please reach out to Dustin’s Place. If you are interested in donating to the organization, you can visit their website at dustinsplace.org.

Dustin’s Place can be reached by phone at 574-529-0528, by email at info@dustinsplace.org, or in person at 11802 Lincoln Highway in Plymouth.

2024

AROUND THE

APRIL

KOONTZ LAKE/WALKERTON/ GROVERTOWN

ALL Times listed are Central Time.

Every Monday

BINGO

Doors open at 5p, early bird starts at 6p, and regular games start at 6:30p at the Koontz Lake Association community building.

Third Tuesday

KLA BOARD MEETING

At the KLA clubhouse is the third Tuesday of the month. Meetings are open to the public and community support is needed! Come to a board meeting to see if you might be interested in helping, as there are several positions available to be filled.

April 5

KOONTZ LAKE CONSERVANCY DISTRICT MONTHLY BOARD MEETING

6p - The meeting will be held at the Sewer District building located at 10625 East Prairie Avenue in Koontz Lake. Interested parties may join remotely by calling 240-591-0378 and entering the code 385729# when prompted.

April 27

KOONTZ LAKE CLEANUP DAY

8a to noon - All volunteers will meet at the Koontz Lake clubhouse. If not signed up, please arrive early to receive your assignment and map. The more help, the better for the lake! The KLA would like to extend our sincere thanks for your participation. Donuts, coffee and lunch will be served.

NEW KITCHEN STORE

New Kitchen Store will start the farmers market in April, weather permitting. They need to know if there are any food vendors (trucks) or farmers

locally that want to come out. Please call Phyllis at 574-310-0163 for more details.

RENT THE KOONTZ LAKE CLUBHOUSE

Rent the Koontz Lake Clubhouse for your next party! The rental fee is $100 and $75 for members. If interested, please contact Cathy at 219-229-4424. The facility holds up to 100 people and has a fully equipped kitchen.

BREMEN/LAKE OF THE WOODS

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

April 6

LOWPOA MEETING AT THE BCC BUILDING 9am

April 20

BCC MONTHLY MEETING AT THE BCC BUILDING 9am

April 20

JOIN LOWPOA/BCC FOR EARTH DAY AND LAKE CLEANUP

LAKE MAXINKUCKEE/CULVER/ MARSHALL COUNTY

ALL Times listed are Eastern Time.

April 13

HEADLOCK ON HUNGER

April 19

THE CULVER LIONS TENDERLOIN DINNER AT THE CULVER DEPOT

4:30p to 7p - Presale tickets are $12 each and $15 at the door. Sit-down or Carry-outs.

April 20

CULVER VFW POST 6919 MONTHLY SATURDAY BREAKFAST

7:30a to 11a

April 26 & 27

CULVER TOWN-WIDE GARAGE SALES

FOR UPDATES REGARDING EVENTS, PLEASE CHECK THE LAKE ASSOCIATION’S/ORGANIZATIONS’ FACEBOOK PAGES/WEBSITES.

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